Eagle Awards honor air navigation service providers (ANSPs) and airports for outstanding performance in customer satisfaction, cost efficiency and continuous improvement. They are based on the recommendations of the independent Eagle Awards Panel.

The awards were presented by Dr. Assad Kotaite, Chairman of the Eagle Awards Panel, in front of 500 top industry leaders gathered for the 65th IATA Annual General Meeting and World Air Transport Summit in Kuala Lumpur.

“Eagle Awards are highly-prized recognitions of airports and ANSPs who strive for excellent service, better cost efficiency and continuous improvement. All parts of the aviation value chain must play their part in meeting the intense challenges of this economic crisis,” said Kotaite. He noted that the panel paid special attention not only to good performance but also to proactive responses to the economic downturn.

"All four winners today have gone beyond the strict and challenging criteria of the Eagle Awards for high service standards and cost efficiency. They have also responded effectively and innovatively to the needs of their airline customers at this time of unprecedented financial turmoil. They put the customer first and delivered value for money. I congratulate all four of this year’s winners for their great achievements. These industry partners are role models for all infrastructure providers," said Giovanni Bisignani, IATA's Director General and CEO.

Most Improved ANSP – Vietnam Air Navigation Services Corporation (VANSCORP)VANSCORP has invested in modern technology in line with the ICAO Roadmap for Air Traffic Communication, Navigation and Surveillance. “VANSCORP has improved greatly in its 15 year history characterized by a strong culture of reliability, efficiency and customer orientation. In addition to maintaining strong relationships with its airline customers, VANSCORP also takes an active role in regional initiatives,” said Bisignani.

Best ANSP – Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS)CAAS is widely recognized as a global leader in the efficient implementation and reliable delivery of air traffic control procedures and technologies. It actively engages its customers to understand better the needs of each airline as well as industry trends. “CAAS plays a key leadership role in regional and global air traffic management initiatives by sharing its expertise. It is acknowledged across the industry for its contributions to enhancing safety and efficiency,” said Bisignani.

Most Improved Airport – Geneva International Airport (AIG)AIG’s sustainable commercial activities have enabled it to maintain reasonable airport charges even as it invested in expansion projects and adapted to new security requirements. AIG found a constructive and fair way of helping airlines during the economic downturn with a US$2.5 million cash back contribution shared among airlines in proportion to their 2008 traffic. “AIG’s commitment to cost-conscious management and partnership with its airline customers makes it a role model for other airports on both a regional and global scale,” said Bisignani.

Best Airport – Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB)Since opening in 1998, Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), the flagship airport of MAHB, has been a leader in service levels, industry and environmental initiatives, operational improvements and cost efficiency with a strong customer focus. “Sustained by strong commercial revenues, MAHB has maintained some of the lowest aeronautical charges in the world. MAHB responded to the global economic meltdown with a 50% discount on landing charges for two years. This is a magnificent contribution from a great industry partner,” said Bisignani.

Honorable Mentions: The independent panel gave an honorable mention to BULATSA, Bulgaria’s air navigation service provider for its continued improvement in the areas of charges, cost efficiency, service quality and consultation. BULATSA agreed to a five-year pricing plan with significant reductions in en-route charges. In response to the economic crisis, BULATSA reduced en-route charges by 5.5%, which was beyond its original commitment. BULATSA has also made progress in operational areas such as route optimization.

"Congratulations to all the Eagle Award winners. You continue to lead the way in setting the standards for performance, cost efficiency and continuous improvements for others to strive for," said Bisignani.